Hemorrhoids: Medications

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Medications

Medicines can help relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids. You might try one or more of the following nonprescription remedies.

• Ointments that protect the skin, such as zinc oxide or petroleum jelly, are the best nonprescription remedies for hemorrhoids. Ointments can prevent further injury and reduce itching by forming a barrier over hemorrhoids.
• Use suppositories like those made by Preparation H or Tucks (formerly Anusol) for 7 to 10 days to relieve irritation and lubricate the anal canal during bowel movements. Some of these products contain substances that can harm anal tissues if they are used for too long.
• Apply an ointment that contains 1% hydrocortisone, a type of steroid medicine that may relieve inflammation and itching. Your health professional may prescribe 2.5% hydrocortisone. But these products should not be used for more than 2 weeks because they can thin the skin.
• Apply products that contain medicine to numb an area (local anesthetic). These products often have the suffix "-caine" in the name or the ingredients. Although these products help some people, especially those who have painful external hemorrhoids, some people become allergic to them. Ask your health professional before using these products.
• Take nonprescription pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can help with pain and swelling.

Last updated:	September 29, 2008
Author:	Monica Rhodes
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Brent Shoji, MD - General Surgery
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC